Shifrin Lalji Somani Islamic Art Internship

Location:  Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2PH

The Shifrin Lalji Somani Islamic Art Internship is an ambitious 8-week programme focussing on the museum’s Islamic holdings. The recipient will have the unique opportunity to gain insight into workings of this area of the Ashmolean Museum collection, as well as the Eastern Art department more broadly.

Over the 8-week period, the intern will also have the opportunity to gain experience in handling and examining original artworks, for which specialist handling training would be provided. Exposure to other museum departments (e.g., exhibitions, learning, digital content, etc.) and their activities will also be part of this experience, and s/he will have the opportunity to actively contribute to them.

The post will be full-time (36.5 hours), it will be remunerated in arrears at £12.78 (Grade 3.4) per hour, and will be expected to start in early July and end by mid to late August 2024. Partial support towards relocation will be available. Please note that, if offered the post, the candidate will be asked to provide proof of right-to-work in the UK and proof of identify.

Please submit all applications to Dr Francesca Leoni ([email protected] ) as word or pdf documents. Each application should include a CV and a supporting statement outlining how the candidate meets each of the selection criteria (see below for further details). Please note that CVs (alone) will not be considered.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 25th April 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview on Tuesday 7th May 2024.

Applications from women, black and minority ethnic candidates are especially encouraged.

Selection criteria

• A BA in an area of Middle Eastern studies and demonstrated interest in the field of Islamic art history;
• Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in museums or the heritage sector and previous record of active involvement with similar cultural institutions; 
• Working knowledge of Arabic, Persian or Turkish;
• High level of accuracy, confidentiality, and attention to detail;
• Ability to conduct research autonomously and pro-actively, but also to follow guidance and work with others; 
• Good communication and IT skills, including social media;
• Prior knowledge of database systems, especially if museum-based, is a plus.